Let's face it: Pop culture doesn't exactly paint brides in the most flattering light. Maybe it's time we did something to reverse our reputation. How about trying these?

Bride embracing bridesmaid, smiling, elevated view

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Say thank you on the mic.

You know to make the rounds at your reception or thank all of your guests for coming in a receiving line. Well, you can take an additional step and prepare a quick speech about just how grateful you are to all of them for helping you celebrate. This doesn't replace the one-on-one thank you. Instead, it gives you a chance to offer a little more insight into how much you appreciate their presence since you can do it one fell swoop instead of individually (over and over 150 times). I didn't think to do this at my wedding--I wish I had, though!

Go out of your way for out-of-towners.

Anyone who's spending a lot of time or dough to get to your wedding deserves extra-special treatment. So make their stay in your wedding town as comfortable as possible. No need to drop a ton of cash on welcome baskets, but water, snacks, maps, and ideas on what to do will make your guests feel, well, welcome. Invite them to your rehearsal dinner if there are only a handful, or if there are a bunch, organize a get-together in or near their hotel so they're not just sitting in the hotel waiting for your wedding to start.

Show your in-laws your appreciation.

Even if they're driving you crazy (we've all been there), it's their special day, too, so make them feel that way. A sister of the groom once told me something interesting. Her parents didn't feel like their son was getting married because they were so left out of the planning, which led to them resenting the bride. That resentment would have disappeared if the bride would have written them a simple note that said, "Thank you for your son." I love that! Again, wish I had thought of that.

Choose personal, practical wedding-party gifts.

Thanks to Paul's not-so-stellar memory, we were a little rushed with the groomsmen's gifts. With their monogrammed money clips, flasks, and mugs, I think we did a decent job of showing we were grateful they shelled out cash for tuxes, wore those heavy suits during our warm outdoor wedding, and gave speeches and did readings. But I once got earrings as a bridesmaid gift--and my ears aren't pierced. Can't say I felt too appreciated.

Treat your guests like guests.

Yes, it's your wedding day. And yes, you need to be happy with your wedding choices. But if you don't show your guests a good time, it's not much of a party. So serve tasty food. Play good music. Give guests comfortable seats. Those are the best ways to express your gratitude.

What else can you do to show your appreciation to friends and family? Would you use any of these ideas for your wedding? Have you encountered any ungrateful brides? What should they have done differently?